A popular former pub is set to be adorned with a kaleidoscope of street art.
The empty Market Tavern, fondly remembered as The Pelican, will be the scene of the Stroud Paint Festival, which takes place on Sunday, July 7th from 10am – 4pm.
Bailey Paints is co-sponsoring the festival alongside Stroud Town Council. The Brimscombe-based business have kindly provided 85 aerosol spray cans and 50 litres of masonry paint.
The Market Tavern owners have provided temporary boards for artists to paint on. A spokesperson for the pub, said: “We’re thrilled to fund these temporary boards as a legal site for street art in our town.
“We strongly believe in the placemaking power of street art and its ability to enhance the vibrancy and character of Stroud. By providing a canvas for artistic expression, we hope to contribute to the town’s creative spirit.”
Artists confirmed to be taking part are organiser Lee Kirby (Art of 3rd Eye), Andy Council, Eleanor Harper, Hope Hanni, 45rpm, Pire, Auld English, Mr Riks, Direk, Saor, Kabs, Likes wan Tu, Cuss1, Peanuts Deli, Dead Fish Count, Preff, Lost dogs, Skem, Fink 22, Milky, and Zed in the Clouds.
Deputy CEO/Town Clerk Kate Montgomery expressed her excitement, stating, “We hope that the London Road boards and the Saint Ismier corner will be used by street artists to create a welcoming display that reflects the vibrant arts scene of our town. This is a great opportunity to use the gateway to signal how much is happening in and around Stroud. These boards are temporary and funded by the owners of The Market Tavern, but other locations we have helped The Paint Festival to secure will be opportunities for permanent murals.”
The site where the boards have been erected was previously used as a location for teenagers to enjoy diversionary activities and workshops. Recently, the artist Zed in the Clouds has produced a mural at the Legal Graffiti Wall as part of the SVA Site Festival, where the artist was given a ‘Bursary Open Studio.’
The Paint Festival organisers are looking for additional organisations and companies who would like to add their sponsorship to the event, presenting a great opportunity to have strong associations with the youthful and expressive side of Stroud life. Those interested can email council@stroudtown.gov.uk.
Venues to be decorated with permanent murals include:
- The underpass near Travis Perkins
- The Police Station
- The Opticians by Coffee #1
- Milano’s Cafe
- Stroud Brewery
These locations were chosen to highlight the town’s commitment to fostering a creative and inclusive environment, encouraging artistic expression, and enhancing the visual appeal of Stroud.
To find out more, head to visitstroud.uk and search for Paint Festival in the listings.
